The random ruminations of a man on the run–running to win people to Jesus Christ (I also am prone to shamelessly brag on my perfect grandchildren).

Menu

Ouch!

John 6:60 (NLT) Many of his disciples said, “This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?”

If your preacher does not make you uncomfortable occasionally you had better get a new preacher! If your prayer time doesn’t make you uncomfortable occasionally you’re not really praying. If your Bible-reading doesn’t bother you sometimes than you’re not honestly reading the Bible.

discipleship.pp.bg.2a (Photo credit: Brother Timothy)

This is what was going on with the disciples listed in today’s verse.

It is important for us to understand that the issue here is not that Jesus’ words were hard to understand (as in trying to understand the “fine print” in a legal document); rather it was hard to understand as in being offensive.

One translation put it this way: “This is more than we can stomach! Why listen to such talk!” (NEB)

Bottom line, if you hope to walk with Jesus expect “kick-back” moments when you will have to make a choice; when you will have to answer the question: “Am I willing to change even though I don’t want to or am I going to be in rebellion to Jesus and His word?”

The disciples that were following Jesus at this time no doubt found some of the things that Jesus said to be mysterious. But it was the part they could understand that bothered them.

It reminds me of G.K. Chesterfield’s words: “It’s not that Christianity has been tried and found wanting; but rather, it has been found difficult and not tried.”

So dear friend, the next time your pastor “steps on your toes” make a point to say, “Thanks!” 🙂